September 1

Jesus teaches about the cost of being a disciple

Luke 14:25-27

(Harmony 158)

Great crowds were following him. He turned around and addressed them as follows: “Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far more than he does his own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, or sisters—yes, more than his own life—otherwise he cannot be my disciple. And no one can be my disciple who does not carry his own cross and follow me.“

To love Jesus far more than even one’s family means that, ultimately, Jesus is the focus of one’s life. Loved ones should never be allowed to pull a person away from Christ.

Total Submission

Jesus’ audience was well aware of what it meant to carry one’s own cross. When the Romans led a criminal to his execution site, he was forced to carry the cross on which he would die. This showed his submission to Rome and warned observers that they had better submit too. Jesus spoke this teaching to get the crowds to think through their enthusiasm for him. He encouraged those whose commitment was superficial either to go deeper or to turn back. Following Christ means total submission to him—perhaps even to the point of death. Jesus wants more than enthusiasm—he wants total dedication. Have you dedicated your life to Jesus?